President Bush (this year, unlike last year) mentioned the GulfCoast and New Orleans during his final State of the Union Speech.
Bush said, “Tonight the armies of compassion continue the march to a new day in the GulfCoast. America honors the strength and resilience of the people of this region. We reaffirm our pledge to help them build stronger and better than before. And tonight I am pleased to announce that in April we will host this year's North American Summit of Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the great city of New Orleans.
President Bush initially made that pledge in Jackson Square in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.During his speech, the President also announced the upcoming Summit in New Orleans.
In response, Louisiana Recovery Authority (LRA) Chairman Dr. Norman C. Francis issued the following statement regarding President George W. Bush's announcement: "This is an historic time for our city and state, a time of unprecedented hope and confidence in Louisiana's recovery. Tonight's announcement certainly sends that message, and underscores the fact that Louisiana is once again open for business.
"While much remains to be done, Louisiana has made significant recovery progress since the 2005 storms. Federal recovery funds are flowing, neighborhoods are re-awakening and the sound of hammers and construction can be heard throughout the most impacted areas of South Louisiana. Over the last two years, New Orleans has also played host to many large gatherings, conventions, music festivals and major sporting events since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, including this year's BCS National Championship game, which brought tens of thousands of visitors to the CrescentCity.
"I applaud President Bush for his commitment to the people of New Orleans and Louisiana. His pledge and support of federal dollars ensure that Louisiana's recovery will be successful. We are most grateful for this opportunity to highlight both our progress and our remaining needs to the nation and world."
